SwitchPACE Expands Solar Loan Options in Pictou and West Hants PACE Programs.

SwitchPACE CIC, a Community Interest Corporation that develops Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) programs across Canada, is updating its solar loan terms in two of its programs in the Regional Municipality of West Hants and the Municipality of Pictou County. SwitchPACE CIC, which also administers multiple PACE programs in Nova Scotia and PEI, including Colchester, West Hants, Pictou, Wolfville, Stratford, and Charlottetown, has financed over 300 solar projects over the last three years. To further expand access to solar, new financing options are being introduced to make installations more affordable and accessible in West Hants and Pictou.

New Changes to Solar Financing:

Longer Loan Terms for Homeowners – Homeowners in the Switch MOPC (Municipality of Pictou County) and Switch West Hants programs can now finance their solar (and battery) installations over 15 years, up from the previous 10-year term. This change will reduce homeowners’ monthly loan payments, allowing them to save more each month and maximize their financial benefits over the life of the project until it is fully paid off.

New Commercial Solar Financing in MOPC – Businesses in the Municipality of Pictou County can now access up to $250,000 in financing over 10 years for solar (and battery) installations. This new option provides a practical way for businesses to reduce long-term energy costs, protect against rising electricity rates, and invest in sustainable operations.

Why Financing Matters for Solar Adoption:

Upfront costs are one of the biggest barriers to solar adoption. While solar panels provide long-term savings, the initial investment can be difficult for homeowners and businesses to manage. PACE financing addresses this challenge by offering long-term, fixed-rate loans with no money down, allowing participants to install solar panels with no upfront costs.

The Role of Solar and Batteries for Energy Resilience:

growing need for reliable energy solutions. Solar power, especially when combined with battery storage, provides a dependable backup source that keeps homes and businesses running during disruptions. This is particularly important in Pictou County and West Hants, where recent storms and flooding have caused widespread and prolonged outages. Expanding access to solar financing allows more residents and businesses in these communities to invest in energy resilience, reducing their reliance on the grid and strengthening the region’s ability to withstand future power disruptions.

For more information, visit www.switchwesthants.ca or www.switchmopc.ca to reach each program site or email [email protected].